Shure Supports FCC Wireless Mic License Eligibility Expansion

NILES, ILL.—Professional audio vendor Shure Inc. is applauding the FCC’s adoption of new rules to expand wireless microphone license eligibility to include professional sound companies and venues that routinely use 50 or more wireless microphones. The company says the move will insure that concert venues, theaters, convention centers, theme parks, professional sound companies, and other large-scale users will continue to be able to employ wireless microphones reliably as spectrum use intensifies.

The FCC’s actions come after the commission recently completed a multi-year exploration of the role of wireless microphones in modern content production and the technical challenges that surround their use. The study included consultations with wireless microphone users across many different types of productions.

After consideration of technical and regulatory factors, the commission concluded that the use of wireless microphones (and related equipment such as in-ear monitors and production intercoms) at major productions and events could be effectively protected by expanding license eligibility. Wireless microphone users may request protection from interference from TV band devices (also known as "white space" devices) at the time and location of these events by registering in one of the FCC-approved TV Bands Devices Databases. Licensed users can obtain protection in a more streamlined and efficient manner. Previously, only broadcasters, cable networks, and TV/film production companies were eligible for licenses.

“Shure applauds the FCC’s thoughtful decision regarding expansion of entities eligible for wireless microphone licenses," said Mark Brunner, senior director, Global Brand Management at Shure. "As spectrum demand is increasing from a wide variety of technologies and services, protection of professional audio operations is becoming more critical. We are pleased that the commission has recognized the wide impact that wireless microphones have on our daily lives--in broadcasting and media production, sports, live entertainment, and in corporate, civic, education, and worship venues. The commission’s action takes an important step forward in updating the regulations regarding professional audio operations that have become an integral part of American culture and aligns with views held by regulatory authorities around the world. Shure appreciates the careful attention the FCC has paid to this issue.”

Wireless mic makers got the technical clarifications they were seeking from the Federal Communications Commission today, which approved two actions further defining operational parameters for the devices.

Broadcasters aren't the only ones concerned about potential for interference from devices operating on TV "white space"--the TV channels currently not in use by broadcasters in a given area. As previously covered in RF Report, theater operators in London are concerned about the British government's plans to auction the white space and the impact that would have on the wireless microphones used to support theater in London.